After INXS-Queen?Feb 12, 2006
Updated 09:39pm (Mla time)
Marinel R. Cruz
Inquirer
ROCK STAR WANNABES IN these parts, who dream of slugging it out in the phenomenal reality TV show "Rock Star," will get that chance when Star World holds Asian auditions in April, said a network executive.
"But our Hong Kong office is still not saying where in Asian country it will be held," said Sasa Tan Carlos, marketing manager of Cable Technology Asia Corp., a member of Star Group Limited.
Last season's "Rock Star," produced by Mark Burnett Productions ("The Apprentice," "Survivor," "The Contender") and aired twice a week on Star World, was a worldwide search for a new lead singer for top '80s band INXS from Australia.
Auditions for the previous season were conducted on six continents, excluding Asia, noted Carlos.
"I think the show's producers were very impressed with the overwhelming interest that the show generated in Asia during the first season," she said.
Early speculation is that the next search will be for a replacement for the late Freddie Mercury, front man of the legendary British rock group, Queen.
"Network executives are tight-lipped," said Carlos. "But they have announced that the new season will carry the same format and run for 26 episodes."
She added that last season's hosts, Brook Burke and Dave Navarro, will be retained.
Carlos also said that, in the event Asian contenders make it to the final round, they will be flown to the United States in May.
"Rock Star" features an elimination format similar to Fox's "American Idol." Judging is based on viewer's SMS votes as well as ratings given by members of the featured band.
The winner will join the band on a worldwide concert tour and collaborate on the group's new album.
Last season's winner is Canadian JD Fortune. The 11-week search ended in September. Fortune is now touring with INXS.
Fortune figured in a three-way fight for the title with American Marty Casey and Fil-Aussie MiG Ayesa.
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